It has been three months since Regan Poole limped from the pitch in the early stages of Pompey’s FA Cup defeat at Chesterfield.
He did not know it at the time, but the defender had suffered an ACL tear that would rule him out for the remainder of the campaign.
The disappointing news marked the spell of a long route back to recovery for the summer signing, who had won his first Wales cap a few weeks earlier.
Poole admits that there have been difficult days, but is pleased with how he is faring with his rehabilitation.
He said: “I’m progressing really well and am exactly where I should be – I’ve come a long way since having the operation.
“It was a really tough couple of weeks after that and I didn’t think I’d be where I am in such a short space of time. The physios are happy and I’m happy – I’m in a good place.
“I was fine after getting the injury. I walked off the pitch and got onto the coach, so to hear the news of what I’d done was the toughest thing.
“We were waiting for the scan results and I was thinking it would be good news, so I was absolutely devastated.
“It was heartbreaking and I’d never been injured before, so I wasn’t expecting it. It took me time to get my head around it.
“I was wondering how I’d get through it because we were top of the league and I was playing every game, while I’d won my first cap for my country.
"It was heartbreaking and I’d never been injured before, so I wasn’t expecting it. It took me time to get my head around it."
“Everyone at the club was so supportive and there was a phone call straight away, so I wasn’t on my own. They were all gutted as much as me.
“For them to reassure me that they’re for me if there’s anything I need meant I knew they were with me through this.
“After the operation it began to sink in. I was in a lot of pain afterwards and couldn’t really do anything.
“They took the right hamstring and put it into the left knee, but a week later I was off the crutches and I was surprised how quick the turnaround was.
“Now I’m doing double leg exercises and a month ago, I never thought I’d be doing that. I’m seeing progress and little wins in my rehab – like doing my first jump the other day.
“You go home thinking you’ve accomplished something, although it’s frustrating at the moment because I feel I can do more than I actually can.
“It’s a tough time and you need to remain as positive as you can, but some days are better than others. The medical team do a good job of making sure I’m on track.”
Poole is appreciative of the backing he has received from the Fratton faithful since suffering the injury.
He said: “I’m sorry I haven’t been on social media as much, but it’s been a time where I’ve had to deal with things with my family and I’ve had to take a step back.
“But I’ve seen all the messages of support and it’s brilliant. I want to say thank you so much for your messages.
“It does make me feel emotional. I can’t wait to be back on the pitch again next season and showing you all what I can do.”